Bealach na Ba Summit Walk, Applecross
Highlands
The Bealach na Ba is one of the highest and most dramatic mountain roads in Britain, climbing from sea level at Tornapress to 626 metres in under 11 km with gradients and hairpin bends that test both vehicle and driver. The summit plateau above the pass, however, rewards those who arrive by foot rather than car. From the car park a series of open moorland ridges climb gently above the road to higher ground with views west to Skye and Raasay, north into the Torridon hills and south towards Knoydart. The terrain is open heather moorland with occasional rock outcrops, and the sense of space and altitude gives the walk a genuinely remote Highland character.
This is an exceptional dog friendly walk for dogs that enjoy open moorland. Off-lead potential is high across the plateau, with no fencing, minimal livestock risk above the road level and a landscape wide enough that dogs can range freely while remaining in sight. The clean moorland burns provide drinking water throughout. The main challenge is weather: the summit plateau is fully exposed and conditions can change rapidly. Suitable waterproofs for both owner and dog are essential. In good weather this is one of the finest short moorland walks in Wester Ross. The Applecross Inn in the village below is dog-friendly and provides an excellent end to a day that combines the road and the walk above it.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 5.0 km (3.1 miles)
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Duration
- 2 hr 15 min
- Walk Type
- Peak, Moorland, Coastal
- Route Type
- Out and Back
- Off Lead Potential
- High
- Livestock Risk
- Low
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bealach na Ba Summit Walk, Applecross dog friendly?
Bealach na Ba Summit Walk is rated 9 out of 10 for dog friendliness, making it one of the best moorland walks in Wester Ross for dogs. The open heather plateau, minimal livestock risk above road level, and clean burns providing natural drinking water all contribute to a genuinely excellent experience for dogs and owners alike. If you're looking to finish the day in style, the Applecross Inn in the village below is dog-friendly too.
Can dogs be off lead at Bealach na Ba Summit Walk, Applecross?
Off-lead potential is high across the summit plateau — there's no fencing, minimal livestock risk above the road, and the landscape is wide and open enough that dogs can range freely while staying in sight. It's the kind of terrain where dogs with good recall can really stretch their legs. Just be mindful that the plateau is fully exposed, so keep a close eye on your dog if the weather closes in quickly.
What should I know before visiting Bealach na Ba Summit Walk, Applecross with my dog?
The biggest consideration here is weather: the summit plateau sits at 626 metres and is completely exposed, with conditions that can change rapidly. Waterproofs for both you and your dog are essential, regardless of how the day starts out. On the plus side, the moorland burns provide drinking water throughout the walk, so you won't need to carry much for your dog.
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